The TTouch System was created by internationally renowned animal expert Dr. Linda Tellington-Jones. Named after its founder, this special method is used to support and train companion animals, horses, and exotic species. It can also benefit human physical and emotional well-being. TTouch provides a positive, non-forceful, and gentle approach, and has now become a trusted method for pet owners, trainers, breeders, veterinarians, vet assistants, zookeepers, and shelter workers worldwide.
Originally developed for horses, TTouch is now widely applied to many species—including cats and dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, parrots and other birds, turtles, snakes, and even invertebrates like snails.
My Experience Learning TTouch
TTouch uses specific types of touches and lifts to help animals relax, gain confidence, and improve both physical and emotional conditions. I had the opportunity to attend a class taught by Lauren McCall at the Rabbit Lovers Association. Before attending, I knew very little about TTouch and was worried that doing it incorrectly might harm my rabbits.
To my surprise, the instructor began by clarifying that TTouch is not massage. It uses the gentle pressure of a stroke, stimulating the nervous system rather than the muscles. Therefore, as long as the pressure is correct, it will not harm the rabbit. While TTouch can help address certain issues, Lauren emphasized that it is not a replacement for veterinary care, but rather a complement to it. For conditions such as paralysis or head tilt, TTouch cannot reverse the illness, but it can help animals reach the best possible state in their condition.
"We Do TTouch With Animals, Not To Them"
One of the most memorable things Lauren said was the TTouch philosophy: "We do TTouch with animals, not to them." TTouch should always be done with respect and cooperation, not by imposing on the animal. The person performing TTouch should remain relaxed, breathing naturally, and treating it like an ordinary time of gentle affection—only the hand movements differ.
There are no strict rules about when to start or how long to do TTouch. The best results come from performing it naturally and calmly. If an animal becomes impatient, it's fine to stop and try again later. Slow and steady progress is key.
Seeing the Results
After class, I began using TTouch gestures instead of my usual petting. Both my rabbit and guinea pig responded very positively, appearing noticeably more comfortable right away. While helping at the Rabbit Lovers Association, I sometimes used TTouch briefly when giving medicine to rabbits. Some became calmer, although others remained uneasy.
One rabbit named Zuo Zuo, suffering from encephalopathy, often became anxious and struggled during medication. After a few gentle TTouch strokes while holding him against my chest, his rapid breathing gradually slowed down. Perhaps such small efforts may not bring immediate change, but as our instructor said, TTouch works through repetition and patience—true change takes time.
The Calming Effect—For Both Animal and Human
TTouch not only soothes animals but also helps humans relax. When I quietly focus and connect with animals during TTouch, my own stress melts away. Rather than expecting specific outcomes, I learned to simply relax, communicate gently, and enjoy the shared moment. That mindset, more than any technique, is what makes TTouch truly meaningful.
In-Class Practice
During the workshop, Lauren carefully demonstrated and checked each student's pressure and hand movement. By using the correct touch and tools, TTouch can help rabbits relax and gain confidence. In one exercise, participants worked with a paralyzed rabbit; after the session, its previously immobile front legs twitched slightly. Although TTouch cannot repair irreversible nerve damage, it can help every animal become the best version of itself.
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